“That sounds amazing,” I said. “What was it like, growing up with parents like that?”
Ivy chuckled. “It was definitely interesting. Our dinner conversations were always deep dives into the nature of existence, or the ethics of modern society. They encouraged me to explore all kinds of different beliefs and practices. That’s where all the witchy stuff comes from. My grandma taught me a lot when I stayed with her as well.”
“What’s your grandma like?” I asked, leaning forward.
“She’s the coolest,” she said, her eyes lighting up. “My grandma’s name is Eliza. She’s this tiny woman with a ton of spunk. She used to run a small herb shop here, and got me into all the witchy and herbal stuff. Staying with her was always an adventure. In fact, the space for Enchanted Quill was a gift from her. She told me to make it my own, and that’s exactly what I did.”
“That’s so sweet,” I said, smiling at the thought. “Where is she staying now?”
“She’s at Brookside Haven,” Ivy replied. “It’s a great place just outside of town, more of a retirement community than a nursing home. She’s really thriving there. Making friends, hosting social nights, and even doing tarot readings. Oh, and she’s met someone, too! A gentleman named George.He’s a retired professor, and they bond over their love for literature and philosophy.”
“Have you met him?” I asked, curious.
“Yeah, I’ve met him a few times,” Ivy said with a fond smile. “He’s great. Tall, with a kind face and a gentle demeanor. He’s got this old-world charm about him; always wearing tweed jackets, and reading glasses perched on the tip of his nose. It’s really sweet to see them together.”
“That sounds perfect for her,” I said. “Why Brookside, though?”
“Well, it’s bigger than Hallow’s End,” Ivy explained. “They’ve got the college, and new chain stores popping up. I have a feeling it’ll keep growing as more people see the appeal of moving there for the slower pace of life, whilst still enjoying some city comforts. Plus, Brookside Haven has excellent facilities, and Grandma Eliza loves it there. And it’s close enough that I get to visit her most weekends.”
“That sounds ideal,” I said, smiling. “It must have been hard not having your parents at home all the time,” I commented, feeling pang of empathy.
Ivy shrugged with a warm smile. “No need to feel bad. My parents are great. They always make sure they’re home for important dates like Christmases and birthdays. Plus, now that I’m older, I don’t notice their absence as much.”
“They’ve always encouraged me to be myself, and explore my interests. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without them. But enough about my family. What about your parents? Though I think I might have a pretty good idea already.”
I chuckled, shaking my head. “Yeah, they weren’t much of . . . parents. More like showrunners, really. They treated me like a doll, dragging me to social events and showing me off. I hated it.”
Ivy’s expression softened with sympathy. “That sounds tough.”
I shrugged, trying to brush it off. “It wasn’t all bad. I had some amazing nannies who took care of me. They were supposed to be strict, and teach me how to behave but, behind closed doors, they were wonderful. When I was around five or six, I convinced myself that I was adopted, because I didn’t relate to my parents at all. I even told one of my nannies that I thought they had picked me up from the hospital by mistake.”
Ivy laughed. “That’s adorable. So, what were the nannies like?”
“There was Maria, my favorite,” I said, a fond smile spreading across my face. “She was supposed to be strict, but she had a heart of gold. When I was twelve, and I started showing more and more interest in art, Maria noticed. She took me to my first art gallery, and signed me up to art classes.”
Ivy leaned in, fascinated. “It sounds like Maria really made a difference in your life.”
“She did,” I agreed, feeling a wave of nostalgia. “She made me realize it was okay to be different from my parents, to have my own interests and passions.”
We settled into the sofa, our legs tucked comfortably under us as we sipped the last of the wine. Ivy glanced at the clock, then back at me with a smile. “It’s a little late, but I don’t mind staying up longer. We could watch some more movies if you’re up for it?”
“Absolutely,” I nodded eagerly.
Ivy sighed, her expression softening. “I’ve missed this. Amelia’s been going out a lot recently, and our other friend, Daphne, moved away after high school. We keep in touch, but it’s not the same.”
“What about Emily?” I asked, a playful grin on my face.
Ivy laughed, shaking her head. “Imagine trying to have a deep conversation with a golden retriever puppy. Emily is like that. All energy, and no focus.”
I burst out laughing.
“I mean, I love her enthusiasm,” Ivy said, giggling, “but sometimes, you just need to sit down, have a glass of wine, and talk about life.”
Speaking about Emily caused my thoughts to wander to Ethan, and the idea of texting him flitted through my mind. I laughed at myself for even considering it, but the desire to reach out was strong. In my tipsy state, rational thoughts had fled, leaving behind a fluttering excitement.
In high school, I’d found the boys immature, and lacking the spark I craved. College wasn’t much different, until I met Sebastian early in my first year and was immediately addicted to him. Our relationship moved fast. Within the first month, we were official and exchanging ‘I love you’. At the time, it felt right, even if it was intense. But now, with Ethan, I found myself savoring the uncertainty and anticipation.
Ivy waved a hand in front of my face. “Earth to Vinnie,” she laughed. “I think we’ve had a bit too much to drink.”
